The Westport Board of Education tonight approved the appointment of Norwalk public schools chief operating officer Elio Longo Jr. as school business administrator to replace Nancy Harris, who is retiring in June.

Elio Longo addresses the Board of Education tonight after his appointment. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Dave Matlow for WestportNow.com

Harris, who has been assistant superintendent for business since 1999, announced her retirement in February. (See WestportNow Feb. 10, 2013)

Longo has served since November 2011 in the Norwalk school system and previously worked for 10 years in Danbury as finance director of its public schools.

Board of Education Chair Elaine Whitney said Longo would serve to at least 2016 at an annual salary of $185,000. Harris last year earned $205,344.